Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes has stated that the national team aim to win the 2026 World Cup in order to mark a memorable conclusion to the international career of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo, 41, is set to participate in what will be a record sixth World Cup in June. It is widely anticipated that the tournament may represent his final major appearance on the international stage.
Fernandes said: “If we can finish the last World Cup by lifting the trophy for Ronaldo, it would be an extraordinary moment.”
He further added that such an achievement would carry significance not only for Portugal but also in recognition of Ronaldo’s wider contribution to world football. “I truly hope we can do it, not just for the country, but also for Ronaldo’s contribution to football.”
Ronaldo remains the highest goalscorer in men’s international football history with 143 goals. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has achieved numerous honours at international level, although the FIFA World Cup remains the only major title absent from his career achievements.
At international level, Ronaldo has won the UEFA European Championship and has also lifted the UEFA Nations League title on two occasions with Portugal.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July. Portugal’s group stage fixtures have already been scheduled, with their campaign beginning in mid-June.
Portugal Group Stage Fixtures (2026 World Cup)
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| 17 June | DR Congo |
| 23 June | Uzbekistan |
| 27 June | Colombia |
Portugal will begin their tournament campaign against DR Congo on 17 June, followed by matches against Uzbekistan on 23 June and Colombia on 27 June.
The 2026 edition of the World Cup will mark another milestone in Ronaldo’s long international career, as he prepares to participate in the competition for a sixth time. His continued involvement remains a focal point for Portugal’s squad, alongside preparations for the expanded tournament format hosted across three nations.
With the global football calendar leading towards the tournament, Portugal’s qualification group fixtures and squad planning remain central to their preparations. Ronaldo’s experience and record at international level continue to form part of Portugal’s competitive structure as they approach the competition.